The United States imported frozen tilapia in slightly higher quantities than basa

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States imported 187 million pounds (84,822 tons) of frozen tilapia fillets in the first 11 months of 2023, 13 percent more than the 166 million pounds of frozen basa imported during the same period. Although the December figures have not yet been updated, similar results are expected for the full year.

Tilapia (most often from China) and basa (most often from Vietnam) are two cheap imported whitefish. For decades in the United States, they often fought over the same restaurant menus and retail .

Tilapia dominate the competition. But in 2022, the U.S. imported 284 million pounds of basa, 21% more than the 234 million pounds of tilapia imported.

Tilapia production is expected to reach 7 million tons in 2024, up 5 percent from 2023 and 13 percent from five years ago.

Tilapia production is expected to reach 7 million tons in 2024, up 5 percent from 2023 and 13 percent from five years ago.

Wholesale prices for tilapia and basa are usually about the same, but prices for frozen tilapia have rebounded recently. Frozen tilapia fillets cost about $2.50 / lb, which is $0.50 / lb more than rival basa fish.